100 Years of DAAD Alumni: Charlotte Enns

Which DAAD program did you receive support through?

Charlotte Enns: Research Stays for Faculty

Where in Germany did you go with your DAAD funding?

C.E.: Berlin and the Humboldt-University.

When you think of your DAAD experience, are there any  stories, memories, or reflections that come to mind?

C.E.: Although I only stayed in Berlin for one month, the experience was transformative. It had a huge impact on my professional/academic research because I shared my work in American Sign Language (ASL) development in children with my colleague at Humboldt University who was doing the same work in Deutsche Gebarensprache (DGS). The cross-linguistic similarities and differences were inspiring and informed both of our projects significantly.

On a personal level, my experience in Berlin also had a huge impact on me, as my mother lived in Germany before coming to Canada. I so strongly felt her presence while I was there – like I was walking in her shoes.

I felt very supported during the time I spent in Germany. The funding allowed me to obtain excellent accommodations (my own flat very close to the university). The DAAD organizers had social activities, city tours, and other events that facilitated my getting to know the city (Berlin) and other people in the program. I already had some connections at Humboldt University, so was able to get involved in my work immediately. It was a very productive and positive experience.

What impact did this experience have on your career? Your life?

C.E.: As I mentioned in my previous response – this experience had a transformative impact on both my research and my personal life. In terms of my research, the value of comparing work between two sign languages (American Sign Language and Deutsche Gebarensprache) was very insightful and has lead to several publications and academic presentations, as well as a lifelong bond with my German colleagues.

Personally, I feel like I connected with a part of my culture (my mother immigrated from Germany to Canada in 1950), and this has enriched my understanding and identity. It also really improved my ability to speak and understand German!

What advice would you give a young scholar thinking of applying to a DAAD program?

Go for it – you won’t regret it! It will be an excellent experience and you should take advantage of all the events and activities that are organized for you (don’t be shy to join in).